Japan is one of the world’s most lucrative alcohol markets, with a value exceeding US$47 billion annually and strong demand for premium products such as craft beer, artisanal spirits, and imported wine. However, it is also a market with some of the strictest alcohol regulations globally. For foreign producers, navigating this environment without specialized support can result in costly delays, rejected shipments, or even permanent denial of market entry.
At JapanPint, we offer a comprehensive Regulatory Compliance & Import Licensing Service that ensures your alcoholic products meet every requirement under Japanese law. From ingredient review to Food Sanitation Act testing, from Japanese label adaptation to customs clearance and alcohol tax filings, our process provides clarity, structure, and certainty for brands seeking entry into Japan.
In this guide, we explain in detail how our compliance service works, why each step matters, and how JapanPint ensures your products are ready to launch in Japan with full legal clearance.
Product Information Review
The first step in the compliance journey is product documentation. Japanese authorities require comprehensive technical details for every alcohol product being imported, including:
JapanPint’s compliance team carefully reviews these documents, identifies potential issues (e.g., ingredients not approved under Japanese law), and translates them into Japanese technical format suitable for submission to regulatory authorities. This step prevents problems later in the process and ensures smooth acceptance at the testing and customs stages.
Food Sanitation Act Testing
All alcoholic products entering Japan must be tested under the Food Sanitation Act. This law requires laboratory verification that the product is safe, correctly labeled, and free from restricted substances.JapanPint coordinates this process by:
Japanese Label Compliance
Unlike many countries, Japan has highly specific requirements for alcohol labeling. Foreign labels cannot simply be translated; they must be redesigned to include mandatory Japanese information, such as:
JapanPint provides professional label translation and design services that ensure compliance while preserving your brand’s integrity. We create labels that not only meet legal requirements but also resonate with Japanese consumers visually.
Customs Clearance & Alcohol Tax Registration
Every alcohol product must go through customs clearance and registration under Japan’s Liquor Tax Law. This requires precise handling of paperwork, accurate tax filings, and liaison with customs officials. JapanPint manages this process on your behalf, including:
This stage is critical: improper handling of customs or tax registration can delay entry for months. JapanPint’s experience ensures your shipment clears quickly and efficiently.
Importation Under Our License
Perhaps the most valuable part of our service is that JapanPint operates under COMFYS JAPAN合同会社’s alcohol importation and sales licenses.
This means:
Many foreign producers underestimate how difficult and time-consuming it is to obtain a Japanese alcohol import license independently. JapanPint eliminates this barrier, allowing you to focus on your brand rather than bureaucracy.
Why Compliance Matters in Japan
Japan’s alcohol consumers are discerning, and its regulators are meticulous. Compliance is not optional — it is the foundation for any successful alcohol business in Japan. Without it, shipments can be seized at customs, licenses revoked, and brand reputation permanently damaged.
By working with JapanPint, you gain:
Japan offers enormous opportunities for foreign alcohol brands, but only if the regulatory pathway is cleared first. At JapanPint, we provide the expertise, licenses, and infrastructure to ensure your craft beer, spirits, or specialty beverages enter Japan legally, safely, and successfully.
Our team will guide you step by step, ensuring your products are prepared to thrive in the Japanese market.